Camp Nizhoni
A YWCA Camp for African American Girls, Established in 1927
Camp Nizhoni: A Trailblazing Retreat
Established in 1927 by the Phillis Wheatley Branch of the YWCA, Camp Nizhoni was a pioneering camp for African American girls, offering a haven amidst racial segregation. This transformative space allowed young women to connect with nature, build outdoor skills, and create lasting community bonds.
Camp Nizhoni: A Legacy of Empowerment and Adventure
Camp Nizhoni: A Legacy of Empowerment and Adventure
A Haven for African American Girls
Founded in 1927 by the Phillis Wheatley Branch of the YWCA, Camp Nizhoni offered African American girls transformative outdoor experiences during segregation. Its name, meaning "beautiful" in Navajo, reflected its mission to inspire and nurture.
A Home in Lincoln Hills
After years of operating at temporary sites, Camp Nizhoni found a permanent home in 1925 through support from the Lincoln Hills Development Company, becoming a haven for outdoor education and recreation.
Nature and Learning
Each summer, up to 50 campers participated in hiking, camping, and hands-on lessons in biology, astronomy, and outdoor skills, fostering confidence and a love for nature. Activities like gold panning also connected them to Colorado's history.
Empowerment Through Legacy
Named after poet Phillis Wheatley, the camp instilled cultural pride and empowerment, offering a space for young women to grow and find inspiration.
Closure and Legacy
Though financial challenges led to its closure in 1946, Camp Nizhoni remains a symbol of resilience, community, and the importance of inclusive spaces where young women can thrive and explore.
Winks Lodge in the 1950s (Museum of Digital Learning)
